Union calls for a new mental health head

The health union is concerned the government has put off hiring a new state mental health services head.

The former chief executive, Dr John Crawshaw, quit the role last August.

The Department of Health and Human Services says the recruitment of a new head will now not happen until major health system changes are implemented.

Tim Jacobson from the Health and Community Services Union says that is a serious concern.

"We are in a very major process of change right across the Tasmanian health system and unfortunately at this point, without a significant clinical leadership in mental health, it's the bureaucrats that are making decisions about what best fits where, rather than senior clinicians," he said.